In a significant political development that marks a new chapter in Karnataka BJP, Shikaripura MLA B.Y. Vijayendra, son of former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, officially took charge as the BJP state president on Wednesday. The ceremony, held at the BJP office in Malleswaram, witnessed president Nalin Kumar Kateel handing over the reins to Vijayendra.
The power transition faced internal dissent as several leaders aligned with the faction led by BJP National Organising Secretary BL Santhosh chose to abstain from the event. Notable figures, including CT Ravi, V. Somanna, Basanagowda Patil Yatnal, Dr K. Sudhakar, Aravinda Bellada, and Aravinda Limbavali, expressed dissatisfaction with Vijayendra’s assumption of power.
Despite internal disagreements, Vijayendra expressed determination to provide a robust response to the Congress government in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He emphasized the need for unity within the party to secure victory in all 28 Lok Sabha seats.
Former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, a senior BJP leader, hinted at the prospect of organizing a grand convention featuring Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Yeddyurappa expressed the desire to host a program attended by one lakh people, showcasing the newfound enthusiasm among party activists following Vijayendra’s presidency.
Addressing the gathering after assuming office, Vijayendra stated, “With the blessings of the central leaders, I have assumed the responsibility of BJP state president. I will sincerely try to keep the trust.” He pledged to work tirelessly under the guidance of senior leaders and vowed to champion the concerns of the people against the perceived corruption of the government.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of eminent political figures, including former Chief Ministers B.S. Yediyurappa, D.V. Sadanand Gowda, Basavaraja Bommai, and former Ministers Araga Gyanendra, Muniratna, Prabhu Chauhan.
The event was attended by MPs Raghavendra and Tejaswi Surya, among many other party leaders. Despite the challenges of factional tensions, B.Y. Vijayendra assumes a pivotal role in steering the BJP’s course in Karnataka, setting the stage for a dynamic political landscape in the state.